Bible translations

There are three translation methods.

Word for word

Best for in-depth Bible study.

• AMP — Amplified Bible
• ESV — English Standard Version
• KJV and NKJV — King James Version and New King James Version
• NASB — New American Standard Bible

Thought for thought

Easier to read for newcomers.

• NIV — New International Version
• CSB — Christian Standard Bible
• NLT — New Living Translation

Paraphrase

May add to or take from the original. Read it as “what it really means is.”

• NIrV — New International Reader’s Version

ESV, KJV, NKJV, NASB, and NIV are considered the most accurate by most Bible scholars. Ninety-nine percent of the verses quoted on this site are either ESV or NKJV.

Three ways Vince likes to study

• By book, verse by verse — John, Romans, Psalms, and so on. This study starts that way, in Genesis.
• By subject — creation, end times, prophecy, the life of Jesus.
• By character — Jesus, Moses, Daniel.

First, read for content. When needed, compare another version for a deeper understanding. God’s message to you will prevail no matter which translation you use. When you ask, He will make the words you read have the meaning He intends for you and your life.

Reading level, as Vince lists them